Swayambhunath Temple Tourism

Type of destination: Religious Site

Ideal visit duration: 2-3 hours

Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient religious complex perched atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Buddhists and Hindus. The stupa at Swayambhunath is one of the oldest of its kind in Nepal and has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises. It is said to have been founded about 1,500 years ago, and its stupa is a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of gilt copper. Painted on the four sides of the spire base are the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, watching in the four cardinal directions. The complex also includes a variety of shrines and temples, including a Tibetan monastery, a museum, and a library. The site is atop a hill and offers panoramic views of Kathmandu. Its architecture is a mix of Nepali pagoda, stupa, and vihara design reflecting a blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Devotees visit the temple to perform religious rituals, meditate, and pay homage to the deities.

Swayambhunath Temple Tourism

Swayambhunath Temple Tourism

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